25 Feb UAE and Uganda activate visa-free travel for diplomatic and service passports

The United Arab Emirates and Uganda have brought into force a new bilateral visa-waiver agreement, allowing holders of diplomatic and service passports to travel between the two countries without a visa for short stays.

The arrangement, which took effect on 21 February, permits eligible travellers to remain in the other country for up to 90 days within any 180 days.

For Abu Dhabi, the agreement strengthens strategic ties with a region increasingly important for food security, renewable energy and logistics investment. UAE-linked operators, including DP World and Etihad Cargo, have been active in the East African supply chain and freight development, while Emirati investors continue to explore agricultural and infrastructure opportunities in Uganda.

Officials in Kampala have indicated that the waiver will ease ministerial and technical travel linked to UAE-supported solar and agri-technology initiatives. Delegations assessing agricultural land partnerships and trade corridors are expected to benefit from faster access to both Kampala and Entebbe.

The exemption does not extend to holders of ordinary passports. Ugandan citizens travelling on standard documents must continue to obtain visas in advance to enter the UAE.

However, policy analysts view the agreement as a potential stepping stone towards wider facilitation, particularly as Uganda advances the roll-out of biometric passports aligned with international security standards. Any broader relaxation would be subject to future review by both governments.

For Emirati passport holders, the arrangement provides an additional 90-day visa-free destination, supporting business development in tourism, agriculture and telecommunications around the Lake Victoria region.

Companies operating between Dubai and Kampala are being advised to review internal travel policies. Staff travelling on official service passports will no longer require UAE residence visa documentation for short official visits, though mission letters and formal accreditation remain mandatory.

Air cargo operators have also noted potential operational benefits. The ability to move diplomatic and official personnel without advance visas may simplify short-notice crew or technical visits, reducing reliance on airport-issued entry permits.

Immigration advisers have cautioned that the 90-day limit is cumulative across a rolling 180-day window. Overstaying the permitted period may result in financial penalties and future entry restrictions under UAE immigration rules.

Both governments are expected to monitor compliance over the coming year before considering whether to extend similar arrangements to holders of ordinary passports.